Arabic version: خبراء يطرحون سبلًا للاختلاف باحترام

According to ABC News, the attack on MP Helen Haines has prompted a national discussion about civility, respect and social cohesion, while specialists in constructive dialogue say people can learn to handle profound differences without closing conversations down.

Dr Daniel Heller and Dr Farid Zaid co-direct Monash University’s Brave Conversations Project, which combines psychology, neuroscience, education and philosophy. The pair have completed their 100th workshop, helping Australians discuss issues including geopolitics, climate, reproductive ethics, AI, social media and gender. Dr Heller said polarisation can make it difficult to distinguish between disputing a view and attacking a person’s right to exist.

He said emotion has a major role in conflict and urged people to recognise their reactions before deciding what to do next. Governor-General Sam Mostyn, a friend of Ms Haines, said words matter in spoken, written and virtual settings. She called for greater civility in civic and public life and urged Australians to exercise “our muscle of decency”.

Scanlon Foundation Research Institute chief executive Anthea Hancocks said its research offers reasons for optimism, with most people believing in respect, a fair go and the ability to have a voice in government. But she said disagreements become harder when people become entrenched in believing their position is the only right one, particularly when social media and friends reinforce that view.

Heller and Zaid recommend thoughtful questions that test understanding rather than end discussion, such as asking what experiences shaped a person’s perspective or what part of their view they feel uncertain about. Zaid said a successful disagreement is one both participants would be happy to return to, even if neither changes their position. Heller said well-handled disagreement can support learning, innovation, personal growth and authentic human connection.